12 reviews

Phase IdentificationA Vector Voltmeter for Power Grids and Electricians

Dewesoft Gridphase vector voltmeter is a device for seamless phase identification anywhere in the power network, either behind the meter or in front of the meter. We utilize synchrophasor technology and make phase identification as simple as measuring voltage with a multimeter. Dewesoft stands out as the leading and most affordable solution for phase identification on the market, assisting technicians and engineers in various operational scenarios.

Phase Identification highlights

Galvanic and contactless detection

With Gridphase you can measure directly up to 500 V. In situations where that is not possible Gridphase features a built-in capacitive sensor that enables contactless detection of phase on low/medium and high voltage lines.

Fast synchronization

Our vector voltmeter uses an advanced GNSS receiver which means that device synchronization will rarely take more than 15 seconds.

Simplified phase shift compensation

We use a patented solution that eliminates the need for manual phase shift compensation of transformer vector groups. Simply select the transformer you're connected to, based on location, and always reference measurements against well defined electrical phase on the transmission network.

Single device solution

Traditional synchrophasor methods require setup of two devices for phase comparison and identification. We simplify this process by eliminating the need for a dedicated reference device installation for each measurement using permanently present references, the concept of virtual references, and network model.

Consistent reference point

Phase identification is always performed against a reference point. Dewesoft ensures that identification can always be referenced against a known and consistent reference, typically on a high-voltage network. This guarantees a unified reference frame across the entire network, from high-voltage busbars to the last loads on the low-voltage side.

Concept of angle zones

Your power network is divided into angle zones, where voltage phase angle deviation from the reference point stays within ±20°. With 120° phase separation, this margin ensures accurate phase identification.

GPS sync without active GNSS signal

No active GNSS reception is required. After the initial synchronization, the internal synchronization buffer maintains synchronization for up to two hours without an active GNSS signal.

No active data connection required

With "save and pair later" functionality you are able to identify the phases even in the cases where you don’t have an active data connection.

Small size

Our vector voltmeter is extremely small in size with dimensions not exceeding of 180 x 85 x 35 mm (7.09 x 3.35 x 1.38 inches). Device is compact enough to fit easily in your toolkit.

Cost-efficient

Innovative system design makes our vector voltmeter available at an unbeatable price, offering great value without any compromise.

Long battery life

Enjoy up to 50 hours of measurement time on a single battery charge. After the battery is empty simply charge device with any USB-C charger (included).

Made in Europe

All our instruments are engineered and manufactured in our state-of-the-art headquarters facilities in the heart of Europe.  

Dewesoft Gridphase: Simple and accurate electric phase identification

Dewesoft Gridphase revolutionizes phase identification by ensuring accurate measurements anywhere in the power network. Unlike traditional methods that require multiple devices, Gridphase operates with a single device, eliminating the need for dedicated reference installations.

Key features:

  • Galvanic and contactless detection – With Gridphase you can measure directly up to 500 V. In situations where that is not possible Gridphase features a built-in capacitive sensor that enables contactless detection of phase on low/medium and high voltage lines.

  • Automatic phase shift compensation – No manual vector group adjustments needed; simply select the transformer, and Gridphase handles the rest.

  • Fast synchronization – An advanced GNSS receiver ensures synchronization in under 20 seconds.

  • Compact and portable – Measuring just 7.09 x 3.35 x 1.38 inches, Gridphase fits easily into any toolkit.

  • Cost-efficient – Advanced design offers high performance at an unbeatable price.

  • Long battery life – Up to 50 hours of operation on a single charge.

Gridphase streamlines phase identification, making it faster, safer, and more cost-effective than traditional methods.

Phase identification in power distribution grids

Phase identification in power distribution grids refers to the process of determining the electric phase of a specific point in the electrical network relative to a known reference. This is essential for maintaining efficient field operations as well as accurate analytics, planning and simulations. 

Why is phase identification important?

  1. Load Balancing – Helps distribute electrical loads evenly across phases, preventing overloads and improving efficiency.

  2. Service Restoration & Maintenance – Identifies phase misalignments or incorrect connections that could lead to phase load imbalances.

  3. Distributed Energy Integration – Essential for connecting renewable sources like residential solar ensuring they feed the correct phase.

Challenges in Phase Identification

  • Voltage phase shifts due to transformer vector groups.

  • Lack of a universal reference point in complex grids.

  • Safety concerns when working with high-voltage lines.

Dewesoft Gridphase solves these challenges by using a single, portable device that:

  • Provides a consistent reference point across the grid.

  • Uses contactless detection for safe measurements on medium- and high-voltage lines.

  • Automatically compensates phase shifts from transformer vector groups.

By automating and simplifying phase identification, Dewesoft Gridphase  helps you improve power quality, reduce errors, and enhance the reliability of electrical grids.

Read more in our detailed article: Phase Identification in Power Distribution Grids Using Synchrophasors.

How does it work?

Gridphase leverages synchrophasor technology to measure and compare the phase angles of voltage at different points in the power network.

The key differentiation is that, unlike conventional approaches where two devices are needed to identify the phase and the installation of a reference device is required—which can be cumbersome and time-consuming—Gridphase does not require direct installation of a reference device. Instead, it relies on a multitude of reference devices deployed across the power network. A patented method enables compensation for phase shifts due to transformer vector groups in the network.

This process is facilitated by a backend system that maintains the reference measurements and ensures accurate phase identification. The device connects to a smartphone, which provides the necessary data connection to the backend system for real-time phase identification.

Standout features

Synchronization buffer

After the initial synchronization, the internal synchronization buffer maintains synchronization for up to two hours without an active GNSS signal.

Integration of measurement results

Each measurement can be paired with a smart meter serial number (if performed at a customer's site) or a different code or name, along with geolocation data, and saved to the backend system. This information can be transferred to any IT system either manually or automatically.

Network model

The network model allows Gridphase users to perform phase identification in just three simple steps: power-on, synchronize, and measure. No need to worry about a reference device or phase shifts due to transformer vector groups.

Virtual reference

Set a reference at any arbitrary point in the network by measurement and compare subsequent measurements to that reference, just as if you had installed a physical device at that point.

Save and pair later

With save and pair later functionality you are able to identify the phases even in the cases where you don’t have an active data connection.

Live wire detection

Special circuit enables robust detection of live-wire. This way you can be sure you did not swap the live and neutral conductors at time of measurement. 

Gridphase applications

Dewesoft Gridphase targets two application cases:

Power Distribution System Operators (DSOs)

  • Low voltage networks - Phase Overloads and Fuse Trippings: Asymmetric load distribution can cause fuse trippings on the most heavily loaded phase. Gridphase helps identify the phase of loads without having to disconnect the supply.

  • Low voltage networks - Installations and Replacements of Energy Meters: Ensures greater symmetry of load in three-phase networks.

  • Low and medium voltage networks - Proper Phase Connection during Installation and Maintenance of Power Elements: Facilitates correct phase connections for distribution transformers, potential transformers, switchgear, cables, lines, and other connections.

  • Low and medium voltage networks - Troubleshooting in Secondary Systems: Assists in identifying issues in protection and measurement circuits.

Electrical Installations

  • Behind the meter - Connection or Reconnection of Loads: Ensures load phase balance by correctly connecting or reconnecting loads.

  • Behind the meter - Connection of Measurement Equipment: Provides unified phase information across the entire installation for devices such as load guards for EV chargers and smart-home installations.

Virtual point referencing

FOR INSTALLERS
FOR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

Some applications only need a quick comparison between two points in the grid or a building installation. With Gridphase, you can define a “virtual reference” at any location and then compare every subsequent measurement against that reference—no permanent hardware needed. Watch the video on the side for a brief demonstration

Key Benefits

  • No Dedicated Reference Installation: Set your reference once, then measure from anywhere else in the network without extra equipment.

  • Instant Accuracy: Identify correct phases on fuses, busbars, cables, or loads in seconds—without cumbersome setups.

Ensuring Consistent Phase Alignment for Multi-Point Measurements

As electrification accelerates, power quality assessments often require measurements at multiple points in the same installation. In larger systems, simply tracing a single conductor under voltage can be impractical. Gridphase removes this guesswork by reliably identifying each phase under voltage and ensuring your meters or power analyzers are connected to the correct phases at every measurement point.

Key Benefits

  • Confidence in Measurement Accuracy - Guarantee that power analyzers or meters are referencing the same phases, enabling valid data comparisons.

  • Faster Installation & Setup - Align your measurement equipment quickly—no more trial and error or manual phase tracing.

  • Consistent Power Quality Analysis - Ensure uniform, high-fidelity results across your entire installation, even in complex, high-demand environments.

Global phase reference across the network

FOR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

To keep your distribution network truly in order, you need consistent electrical phases from the transmission connection—where they’re clearly defined—all the way down to the last customer. Transformer vector groups can introduce tricky phase shifts that overwhelm many field crews. With Gridphase, these shifts are automatically compensated.

Watch the video on the side to see how we accurately measure phases and auto-compensate for transformers in both low- and medium-voltage grids.

Key Benefits

  • Consistent Reference Point: Maintain a unified phase frame from the substation down to the last meter.

  • Alignment of phases in IT and Field Operations: Seamlessly match the phases in your IT/OT systems with real-world conditions to boost field efficiency and reduce errors.

  • Compare: Correctly compare measurements amongst different measurement devices across your network.

Aligning phase groups to true electrical phases

FOR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

In low-voltage networks, usually data analytics is used to group customers by apparent phase connectivity (L1, L2, L3). Yet these labeled “groups” often don’t align with the actual electrical phases. With Gridphase, you can quickly unify these groups to their real phases, ensuring consistent data network-wide.

Watch the video on the side to see how Gridphase identifies and stores the phase of a single three-phase customer, ensuring correct alignment across all phase groups.

Key Benefits

  • Elevate Power-Flow Accuracy Correct phase alignment drives precise three-phase load-flow studies and hosting-capacity estimates by aligning labeled phase groups to their true electrical angles.

  • Eliminate Confusion and Rework Use a single phase reference across your network so that field technicians and network operation and development engineers speak the same “phase language.”

Loading display for 3-phase installations

FOR INSTALLERS
FOR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

Phase-load imbalance is costing utilities a significant share of their annual reinforcement budget. Because so many new loads—EV chargers, HVAC systems, and heat pumps—are connected behind the meter, utilities often have minimal direct control. By sharing average and peak loading data with private installers, you empower them to optimize placements on the least-loaded phases.

Key Benefits

  • Reduced Power Interruptions  Avert nuisance fuse trips and under-voltages by addressing the most heavily loaded phases before they exceed safe limits.

  • Improved Grid Utilization  Delay costly transformer upgrades by proactively balancing loads. See our case study “Extending Grid Capacity: How Phase Balancing Delays Expensive Transformer Upgrades” for real-world cost savings.

  • Better Customer Service  Empower installers to optimize connections at the outset, minimizing disruptions for end-users and enhancing long-term reliability.

Application note

Extending grid capacity: How phase balancing delays expensive transformer upgrades

As electrification continues to drive up energy demand, low-voltage distribution networks face increasing strain. This leads to voltage imbalances and capacity constraints. Traditional solutions, such as transformer and cable upgrades, are costly and time-consuming, often requiring extensive permitting and construction work.

Instead of immediately resorting to these expensive upgrades, distribution system operators (DSOs) can implement phase load balancing to redistribute loads across phases, alleviating stress on overburdened transformers and feeders. By optimizing existing infrastructure, DSOs can extend the life of critical assets, delay large-scale investments, and maintain grid stability without immediate capital expenditures.

A study of 1,564 distribution transformers found that 415 experienced high-phase loading, making them candidates for load balancing. In many cases, balancing loads across phases extended the time horizon for transformer upgrades by over two years, saving approximately €750,000 in avoided costs. By leveraging advanced measurement tools like Gridphase, operators can efficiently identify and correct phase imbalances, improving network efficiency with minimal cost. While static reconnections are not a permanent solution, they provide a practical and scalable method to manage rising demand, allowing for more strategic long-term planning while maintaining reliable power quality.

Read full application note here.

FAQFrequently asked questions